THE pain of paying RM1,200 in GST for healthcare is real for Sabah MP Datuk Jumat Idris. He took to Facebook to vent his anger at having to pay a hefty medical bill because of GST after his son received treatment at a private medical centre.

It is a blessing in disguise that his case was highlighted. Like Jumat, most parents would want the best for their children. I hope his child is well now.

The government has to relook at exempting GST in healthcare as it is a real burden to the rakyat. There’s still a lot of confusion on what to tax and what to exempt.

If I am not mistaken, majority of countries who implemented GST do not tax healthcare, education and housing. To make things simple, leave taxes out of everything in these three key areas.

Drugs, medicines, equipment, health services and medical health insurance should not be taxed. They are part and parcel of healthcare. Tuition centres can be considered education centres despite the fact that they are not registered as such. Likewise for housing.

The Government must be sensitive to the plight of the rakyat and must have the political will to plug wastage and corruption before burdening the people.

It is a nightmare when the rakyat has to pay more for basic needs while they struggle to make ends meet.